Shanghai Electric Partners with Masdar and Mawarid for Renewable Energy Projects in the Middle East
In April 2025, Shanghai Electric achieved significant milestones by entering into two major agreements aimed at advancing renewable energy initiatives in the Middle East. Collaborating with Abu Dhabi Future Energy (Masdar) and Oman's Mawarid Group, the company is set to contribute substantially to the energy transformation of these regions, supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and Oman Vision 2040 initiatives.
With a focus on solar and wind energy, Shanghai Electric has signed a landmark agreement to develop a 2-gigawatt photovoltaic project in Saudi Arabia, marking its largest solar EPC project worldwide. This initiative, covering an expansive area of 40 square kilometers, is anticipated to generate over 6 billion kWh annually, effectively addressing the electricity needs of approximately 700,000 households while significantly reducing carbon emissions by 3 million tons. By leveraging advanced photovoltaic technologies, this project aims to maximize the region's plentiful solar resources, aligning perfectly with Saudi Arabia's National Renewable Energy Program.
In tandem with its solar efforts, Shanghai Electric's partnership with Mawarid Group in Oman includes not only the supply of wind turbines but also technology transfer and the design of localized manufacturing setups. This cooperation is intended to harness the natural resources of Oman, support the establishment of a local supply chain, and stimulate long-term economic development within the country.
Wu Lei, Chairman of Shanghai Electric Group, emphasized the significance of these collaborations, stating, "This marks a new beginning for comprehensive cooperation alongside Masdar, and it is a crucial milestone for Shanghai Electric to make further inroads into the Middle East's renewable energy market." He expressed hope that both parties would work together to establish a benchmark demonstration project and drive the global energy transition forward.
Masdar's CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, also acknowledged the importance of this partnership, highlighting the potential for deeper collaboration in various fields including photovoltaics, wind power, and energy storage. On the other side, Salim Al Aufi, the Omani Minister of Energy and Minerals, praised Shanghai Electric's expertise in wind energy technology, putting forth the Omani government's eagerness to explore further joint efforts in energy storage, hydrogen energy, and more.
Wu Lei observed that the Omani government's forward-thinking Vision 2040 aligns seamlessly with Shanghai Electric's strategic objectives, creating an opportunity to integrate cutting-edge technologies and quality products in Oman’s energy landscape. The focus on technology licensing and developing a localized supply chain aims to unleash a wave of high-quality projects fostering energy transformation in Oman as well as enhancing China-Arab energy cooperation.
The implications of these agreements extend beyond immediate energy production. The wind power initiative in Oman is expected to facilitate a shift from traditional energy sources to a diversified clean energy portfolio, which will include significant contributions from wind and hydrogen sectors. At the same time, the photovoltaic project in Saudi Arabia directly supports the kingdom's commitment to minimize dependency on fossil fuels, thereby promoting economic diversification while laying the groundwork for Shanghai Electric's broader ambitions within the Middle Eastern solar energy marketplace.
In summary, Shanghai Electric's dual partnerships in the Middle East showcase a technology-centric, localized approach that reinforces its position as a leader in renewable energy innovation. Both agreements represent a strategic commitment to propel the green energy agenda in the region, highlighting the intersection of innovative technology and regional resource strengths to address pressing energy needs. As these projects progress, they not only promise substantial economic benefits but also play a pivotal role in the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.